Hart quits Oscars amid gay-slur fury

Comedian Kevin Hart has stepped down from hosting the Oscars amid continuing controversy over his allegedly homophobic jokes and tweets.

“I have made the choice to step down from hosting this year’s Oscar’s,” Hart said on Twitter just after midnight. “This is because I do not want to be a distraction on a night that should be celebrated by so many amazing talented artists. I sincerely apologize to the LGBTQ community for my insensitive words from my past.”

Hart (photo) had drawn fire over homophobic remarks and comments he’d made that have since been deleted. Just a few hours earlier, he had sworn not to step down or apologize, reported People.

In a second tweet after his announcement, he appeared contrite.

“I’m sorry that I hurt people,” he tweeted. “I am evolving and want to continue to do so. My goal is to bring people together not tear us apart. Much love & appreciation to the Academy. I hope we can meet again.”

The awards are in February 2019.